Sicilian Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further than this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup. This recipe has been a go-to for family gatherings and chilly weeknights alike. There’s something so comforting about a steaming bowl of soup, filled to the brim with tender chicken and fresh vegetables, that just makes everything feel right in the world. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up from scratch, making it a favorite in my kitchen!

Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it on a quiet evening at home, this soup is sure to bring smiles all around. It’s hearty, nourishing, and packed with flavor—perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup bubbling away on your stove.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the tender chicken and fun pasta shapes, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup stores beautifully! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies and lean protein, this soup is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Comforting flavors: The blend of Italian spices and fresh herbs creates a warm and inviting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this Sicilian Chicken Soup to life. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!

For the Soup

• 4 bone-in-skin-on chicken thighs (2 pounds)
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 3 celery ribs, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 3 medium carrots, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium russet potatoes (1 pound), peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can no-salt diced tomatoes
• 2 dry bay leaves
• 1 Tbsp. kosher salt
• 1 (32 oz) carton low-sodium chicken stock
• 4 cups water (or chicken stock)
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped Italian parsley
• Fresh black pepper, to taste

Variations

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using skinless chicken breasts or even turkey for a lighter option.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix!
• Change up the pasta: Substitute ditalini with small shells or elbow macaroni for a different texture.

How to Make Sicilian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large soup pot (at least 6-quart), combine all your main ingredients: chicken thighs, onions, celery, carrots, bell pepper, potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, bay leaves, and salt. Mixing them together now allows their flavors to meld beautifully as they cook.

Step 2: Add Liquid & Simmer

Next, pour in your chicken stock and water. Season with black pepper to taste. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it makes sure the chicken becomes tender and falls off the bone easily.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

After removing the chicken from the pot with tongs (it’s going to be hot!), stir in your ditalini pasta. Keep cooking for another 13-15 minutes until the pasta is perfectly tender—don’t forget to stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Final Touches

While your pasta cooks away happily in its broth bath, use two forks to shred your cooked chicken. Discard any skin or bones—you want just the good stuff! Return that shredded goodness back into the pot.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Finally, don’t forget to discard those bay leaves before serving. Stir in fresh parsley for that burst of flavor and color! Ladle yourself a generous bowl of this comforting Sicilian Chicken Soup and enjoy every warm bite!

This recipe is not just food; it’s warmth served in a bowl—perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Chicken Soup

Making Sicilian Chicken Soup is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your soup to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor of your soup but also provide added nutrients, making it more wholesome and appealing.

• Don’t rush the simmering process – Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps develop deeper flavors. The longer cook time will ensure that all the ingredients meld beautifully together.

• Adjust seasoning as needed – Every ingredient has its own level of saltiness, so taste your soup before serving. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper for a perfectly seasoned bowl.

• Save leftovers creatively – If you have leftover soup, consider using it as a base for other dishes like risotto or casseroles. It’s an excellent way to reduce waste and enjoy another delicious meal.

• Store properly for future meals – This soup freezes well! Make a double batch and store half in an airtight container for those busy days when you crave something comforting without the effort.

How to Serve Sicilian Chicken Soup

Serving Sicilian Chicken Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to present this heartwarming dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh lemon zest – A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness that complements the richness of the soup.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative) – A little cheese on top brings creaminess and depth; it melts into the warm soup beautifully.
• A drizzle of olive oil – A touch of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and enhances the flavors, making every bite delightful.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping, crusty bread is a classic companion that soaks up the delicious broth.
• Simple green salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the hearty soup.
• Garlic knots – Soft and buttery garlic knots are wonderful for sopping up every last drop of your flavorful soup.
• Roasted vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies bring an additional layer of flavor and nutrition while complementing the warm tones of your chicken soup.

Now you’re all set to create a memorable meal centered around this delightful Sicilian Chicken Soup! Enjoy every bite with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep and can easily be made in advance. It stores well, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the soup is cooled to room temperature before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• Label containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sicilian Chicken Soup.

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in thighs for Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless meat cooks faster. Aim for about 20-25 minutes of simmering until fully cooked.

How can I make Sicilian Chicken Soup vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and flavorful soup!

What kind of pasta should I use in Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Ditalini pasta works wonderfully in this recipe, but feel free to substitute with any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or orzo.

Can I add more vegetables to my Sicilian Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, green beans, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Sicilian Chicken Soup as delightful and comforting as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl on chilly days. Enjoy making it for yourself and your loved ones—there’s nothing quite like sharing a homemade meal. Happy cooking!